Recent Advances in Interfacial Engineering of Bio-Based Polymeric Materials for Oil/Water Separation: From Surface Chemistry to Separation Performance
Jia Li*, Siyuan Liu, Zixuan Guo
School of Materials Science and Chemical Engineering, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin, China
* Corresponding Author: Jia Li. Email: 
Journal of Renewable Materials https://doi.org/10.32604/jrm.2026.02026-0045
Received 29 March 2026; Accepted 05 August 2026; Published online 31 August 2026
Abstract
Oil spill accidents and extensive industrial oily wastewater discharge pose severe threats to aquatic ecosystems and public health. Membrane-based separation technology has emerged as a core technology for treating oily wastewater. However, conventional petroleum-derived materials suffer from inherent limitations, including non-renewability, poor biodegradability, and high risks of secondary environmental contamination. Bio-based polymers represent a competitive alternative in oil/water separation due to their renewability, biodegradability, and versatile sources. Interfacial engineering serves as the core strategy for optimizing their high performance and multifunctionality. In this review, the fundamental interfacial chemistry theories of oil/water separation are systematically elaborated first. Recent advances in bio-based polymer systems for this application are then classified and discussed. Mainstream interfacial engineering regulation strategies are subsequently highlighted, such as surface chemical grafting polymerization, nanoparticle hybridization for hierarchical structure construction, biomimetic interface design, and dynamic/smart interfaces. Finally, the critical interfacial determinants governing the oil/water separation performance are systematically elucidated, and future research directions are prospected.
Keywords
Bio-based polymers; oil/water separation; interfacial engineering; wettability; antifouling
Open Access
Login
Register
Submit a Paper
Propose a Special lssue
Download PDF
Downloads
Citation Tools
